Thursday, November 12, 2009

Arkells - Jackson Square

If you live in the Hamilton or Toronto are, chances are you've heard of the Arkells. While their debut album "Jackson Square" is hardly a new discovery, it most definitely deserves recognition. The Arkells blend catchy rock riffs with an indie style, making this album very easy to get into. The songwriting sounds very instinctive, but still manages to sound original and hold the listener's attention. All five members are very competent on their instruments and although the album doesn't contain any jaw-dropping musicianship, the music sounds very smooth and well-mixed. The vocals on "Jackson Square" are superb and the 12 tracks are filled with spots of backup vocals belted out so perfectly behind Max Kerman's solid voice that you can't help but shout them out along with the band. Overall, the album feels compellingly honest and easy to connect to. The Arkells are a perfect example of the kind of musical talent budding in Hamilton and their recent success across Canada is well-deserved.

8.5/10

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